Three students and the driver of a Russellville School District (RSD) bus were transported to Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center on Wednesday following an accident on Alaskan Trail.

Pope County Sheriff Aaron DuVall said the Russellville school bus made its way down a hill on Alaskan Trail around 4 p.m. Wednesday, went around a curve, slid off the road into a ditch area and became wedged against a tree. The sheriff confirmed the bus did not roll over.

“It is off the road,” DuVall said. “We’ve put tape and barrels around the area. All the students are accounted for. We’re very thankful it was just minor like it was.”

DuVall said eight people were on the bus, including seven students and the driver. Three students and the driver were transported to the hospital for possible minor injuries. Three other students were released to the custody of their parents, and one was taken to their family by Pope County Sheriff’s officers.

Two of the students were released from the hospital around 6 p.m. Wednesday, school board member Breanne Davis said. Davis, who was at the hospital following the wreck, said the driver was released about an hour later and that the third student was preparing to go home.

RSD personnel worked with sheriff’s and EMS officials at the scene. The sheriff added Alaskan Trail was closed to any thru traffic.

“If you live up there, you can get to your house,” he said. “But if you’re trying to use a shortcut to get to Crow Mountain, we ask you find another route.”

Russellville Superintendent Randal Williams released the following statement before 7 p.m. Wednesday:

"Today, Russellville School District bus No. 57 was involved in a weather-related accident in which the bus slid off the road into the ditch and tilted over against a tree. No other vehicles were involved.

"Seven students were on the bus at the time of the accident. Four of the seven were released to their parents immediately. Three students were examined, treated, and released by hospital emergency room medical personnel.

"All injuries were considered minor. The driver of the bus was also examined and released."